A crucial emergency vaccination drive in Yemen's Ma’rib governorate has provided life-saving protection against measles to more than 13,700 children. This collaborative effort, spearheaded by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) with support from EU Humanitarian Aid (ECHO) and the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), was launched in response to a local health emergency declared following a concerning rise in suspected measles infections. Yemen continues to grapple with recurring measles outbreaks, a stark indicator of the fragile healthcare system exacerbated by years of conflict and humanitarian crisis. Provisional data from the World Health Organization (WHO) revealed that between October 2025 and March 2026, Yemen reported 11,354 measles cases nationwide, marking it as the second-highest global count during that period. Children living in internally displaced person (IDP) sites and communities with limited access to basic services are particularly at risk, making targeted vaccination campaigns indispensable. ## The Urgent Threat of Measles Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can lead to severe health complications, particularly in young children and those who are malnourished – a common challenge in Yemen. The virus spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Initial symptoms often include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. A few days later, a distinctive rash appears, typically starting on the face and spreading down the body. While often considered a childhood illness, measles can be deadly. Complications range from severe diarrhea and dehydration to pneumonia, brain inflammation (encephalitis), blindness, and ear infections that can cause permanent hearing loss. In areas where healthcare access is limited and malnutrition is prevalent, the risk of fatal outcomes significantly increases, making prompt and widespread vaccination a matter of life and death. ## Why Measles Persists in Conflict Zones In regions affected by prolonged conflict, such as Yemen, the infrastructure necessary for maintaining public health often collapses. Hospitals and clinics are damaged, supply chains for medicines and vaccines are disrupted, and healthcare workers are often displaced or unable to safely reach communities. This environment creates significant gaps in routine immunization programs, leaving large populations of children susceptible to vaccine-preventable diseases like measles. Furthermore, ongoing displacement forces families into crowded temporary shelters, where infectious diseases can spread rapidly. Fear, lack of information, and the sheer difficulty of reaching distant or unsafe health facilities also contribute to low vaccination rates. These compounded challenges mean that even a single measles case can quickly escalate into a widespread outbreak, putting immense strain on already overstretched health services. ## Ma'rib's Proactive Response and IOM's Role Recognizing the escalating threat, local health authorities in Ma’rib, in collaboration with the Public Health and Population Office and the Deputy Governor’s Office, declared a health emergency. This declaration paved the way for the urgent vaccination campaign, which commenced on August 18. IOM played a pivotal role in facilitating this crucial intervention, working alongside partners including UNICEF. The campaign's primary goal was to reach children aged six months to five years in the highest-risk areas, including displacement sites and underserved communities across Ma’rib City, Harib, Madghal, and Ragwan. IOM's involvement was comprehensive: they supported 22 dedicated vaccination teams comprising 88 health workers, ensuring these teams had the necessary resources, including fuel for 22 vehicles, to access remote and hard-to-reach populations. Beyond logistics, IOM also actively engaged in community mobilization and risk communication efforts, disseminating vital information to encourage vaccine uptake and address any concerns within the community. ## Exceeding Expectations: A Campaign's Success The emergency campaign not only met but exceeded its initial targets. Originally aiming to vaccinate 8,514 children, the teams successfully screened 11,143 children. A total of 13,775 vaccine doses were administered, including 10,624 specific measles vaccinations and an additional 3,151 doses for routine childhood immunizations. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of coordinated action and dedicated outreach in overcoming significant logistical and humanitarian challenges. Abdusattor Esoev, IOM Yemen Chief of Mission, highlighted the critical importance of such initiatives, stating, “When children cannot access routine health services, preventable diseases can spread quickly. In Ma’rib, IOM is working with health authorities and partners to reach communities affected by the outbreak and support children in accessing the vaccinations they need to grow healthy and protected from preventable diseases.” This sentiment reflects the broader commitment to safeguarding public health amidst adversity. ## The Path Forward: Sustaining Health Security The success in Ma’rib serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through coordinated humanitarian efforts. However, the fight against measles in Yemen is far from over. The ongoing vulnerability of children, coupled with the persistent challenges in maintaining robust routine immunization programs nationwide, means that continuous vigilance and support are essential. Efforts must focus not only on emergency responses but also on rebuilding and strengthening the foundational healthcare infrastructure. This includes ensuring consistent supplies of vaccines, training and retaining health workers, and establishing reliable cold chains for vaccine storage. Furthermore, sustained international funding and collaborative partnerships are crucial to help vulnerable communities access the essential health services required to protect children and families from preventable diseases in the long term. By continuing to prioritize comprehensive immunization strategies and addressing the root causes of healthcare disruption, Yemen can move towards a future where children are safeguarded against the devastating impact of diseases like measles, ensuring they have the chance to grow up healthy and thrive.